The salvaging operation of the naphtha-loaded tanker MT Nu Shi Nalini continues to remain grounded. The Deputy Collector and local MLA Jennifer Monserrate’s visit is not convincing, and neither is the statement by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant attributing the delay in salvaging of the tanker to the weather. The residents of Dona Paula, and more especially La Marvel, are in a state of panic each passing day and their anxiety is palpable. An accidental explosion of the 2,500 metric tonne naphtha could ravage the tiny village causing irreversible damage to life and property. The destruction of maritime life is unfathomable. It is not only Dona Paula, but the entire State is watching with bated breath. In the background, the timeline of River Princess gives a scare.
We understand that frequent review meetings are happening between Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and MPT officials. There were sporadic statements initially made on the course of action, including the press-notes that were issued in the first few days. All government communication since the aborted attempt to salvage the tanker last Thursday appears vague. Interestingly, even the failed attempt by the Navy to land a two-tonne hydraulic pump on the distressed ship raises eyebrows. A sensitive issue like this where a lot is at stake cannot be handled so callously. The pump was moved from the MPT berth to the site by a helicopter but was dropped into the sea just before landing because it was oscillating. A pump crash on the ship could have resulted in a bigger tragedy.
The salvage operations have to be handled by professionals and every move has to be measured with clinical precision. The weather, wind speeds, water samples and the conditions in and around the ship have to be monitored round-the-clock. Moreover, the condition of the liquid cargo in the ship is not ascertained and that again is a worry. Dead fish is found floating around the area sparking fears of a leak. For now, there are only dates given on the salvage operations with little action at the site.
It is now decided that an electronic hydro-power pump will be used. This is a welcome move, provided it is handled by a team having the expertise. Transfer of naphtha is a serious challenge and the consequences could be shattering. Given the sensitive nature of the issue at hand, the government must be completely sincere in its approach and must come clear on its moves rather than give random assurances. There has been an FIR lodged against the owner of the tanker, but is that all? Why is no action initiated against those responsible at the MPT where the ship was anchored all this time? It’s an irony that the government machinery boasts of coastal security and performs Sagar Kavach with all gusto, but fails to intercept an unmanned ship loaded with 2500 metric tonnes of naphtha straying into our waters. And a bigger irony is politicos relentlessly raising a pitch for Mhadei, forgetting that the Nalini time-bomb is ticking on our beach bed.
